Cambridgeshire is located in the South East of England, bordering the ancient kingdoms of Mercia and East Anglia. Though it may be known primarily for its world renowned University of Cambridge that attracts thousands of visitors annually, the county is also far more than this one institution, and could be a great choice for your next holiday destination!
The landscape of Cambridgeshire is predominantly flat (making for easier walks), and includes the UK’s lowest point at Holme Fen, which is 2.75m below sea level! The Isle of Ely is so named because it was historically an island in the centre of the fenland, and the unique geographic features resulting from this certainly make it worthy of a visit. If you’re looking for a hike, you can check out the Gog Magog Hills (known to locals as ‘the Gogs’), a collection of hills with a distinctive landscape.
The main city and county town is Cambridge, famed for its ancient university, and for the beautiful architecture of its colleges. The university also houses a gorgeous botanic garden, perfect when paired with a walk around the college grounds. In the city proper, you can visit the Fitzwilliam Museum, filled with artefacts from around the world, or go punting along the River Cam – just be careful not to fall in!
Although Cambridge may be the obvious destination, other towns in Cambridgeshire include Peterborough, famous for its gothic Cathedral, and Huntingdon, a charming market town full of history.
Cambridgeshire’s attractions are mainly its architecture, for instance the gorgeous Ely Cathedral, which is over 1000 years old! If you’re looking for more natural sights to see, the fenlands areas like the Ouse Washes are well known for their bird life, and are a great tranquil spot to take a relaxing family walk. Other crowd pleasers include the Nene Valley Railway for anyone with an interest in heritage trains, and the Cambridge Gin Laboratory, where you can blend your own luxury gin concoctions!